Discuss The Court Jester
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One of the greatest sword fights in film history
posted by PT 100STAFFMOD on February 27, 2020 at 10:20 PM
Near the end of the film, Danny Kaye's character has a sword fight with Basil Rathbone's character. Rathbone was an expert fencer, probably the best in Hollywood; and Kaye managed to keep up w/him amazingly well. Kaye had the extra burden of having to switch back and forth from expert to novice with each snap of someone's fingers. It's a real testament to his skill and athleticism.
I don't know how long it took to rehearse and film that scene, but it was a tour de force performance by both actors.
Reply by wonder2wonder
on February 28, 2020 at 12:00 AM
Videoclip of the sword fight.
Note: Watch the candles at 3:10; there's a 'goof'.
Reply by PT 100
on February 28, 2020 at 12:45 AM
Yes, he hits the candle near the top, not where it is going to be "cut."
Reply by wonder2wonder
on February 28, 2020 at 12:55 AM
And there is also a difference between the angle of the cut of the candles and the pieces on the table - two in front - between 3:15 and 3:18.
Nonetheless an amazing fight scene.
Reply by SueDNim
on March 17, 2020 at 2:57 PM
Wonder2Wonder, thanks for posting the link to that clip. It was great to watch it again. I've been thinking that it's time to watch that movie again, and this thread has spurred me on. I love Danny Kaye. I love Basil Rathbone. This movie is a gem.
I admit that my personal favorite is still the Basil Rathbone - Errol Flynn sword fight in The Adventures of Robin Hood. That has all the showmanship without the humor to water down the excitement and tension one should feel at a deadly showdown between the Good Guy and the Bad Guy.
Reply by PT 100
on March 17, 2020 at 3:09 PM
This film also showcases Danny Kaye's facility with tongue twisters and his ability to memorize nearly impossible dialog.
Reply by SueDNim
on March 17, 2020 at 3:12 PM
The man was a genius. :)